Empowering Abused Women Through Equine Assisted Career Therapy

Abstract

Female survivors of domestic violence may experience symptoms of low self-esteem, insecurity, difficulty with problem solving, low self-efficacy, and high anxiety with regard to their economic future. Creative methods are needed to help abuse survivors overcome these factors so they are able to set and attain career goals. Equine assisted therapy has been shown to increase self-esteem, improve self-efficacy, and lower anxiety (Marx & Cumella, 2003). This article discusses an overview of the literature regarding career-related consequences for female survivors of intimate partner abuse, describes equine assisted therapy, and details a creative career counseling method.

KEYWORDS:

• equine assisted therapy
• career
• abuse
• women
• domestic abuse
• domestic violence
• abuse survivors
• counseling
• creativity